RULES OF BICYCLING SAFETY

Bicycle touring has its inherent risks. It is a sport whose safety is dependent upon the judgment and alertness of the cyclist. As a cyclist you are responsible for the way you tide and the condition of the bicycle.

For a safe bicycle

Your bicycle must be in excellent repair. Every bicycle needs through servicing annually. If you have not had this done recently , please have it done before your tour. Special attention should be paid to the functioning of brakes; condition of brake pads and cables’ functioning and condition of derailleur and derailleur cables; headset; cranks; trueness and cones of wheels; tightness of seat post, seat and handlebars; condition and pressure of tires. If you bring a new bicycle, ride it adjusted by a bicycle mechanic.

For safety on the road

• Follow all traffic regulations as if you were driving a car.
• Use hand signals for turning, slowing down or stopping.
• Yield right of way to pedestrians.
• Ride on the side of the road in the same direction as motorized traffic.
• Ride a straight course neat the side of the road (not too close to the edge of the pavement so as to risk going off the pavement)
• Ride single-file and keep several bicycle lengths between yourself and the cyclist in front of you. Allow even more room when going downhill.
• Use both brakes at the same time, gently; never stab at them. On downhill, pump both your brakes. Do not apply them continuously, for this can cause them to overhead and stop working.
• Dry you brakes by using them after cycling through water or on a wet road.
• Never go faster than you can handle.
• Listen for motor vehicles coming from behind and prepare to have them pass you.
• Do not look behind you while riding a bicycle; Except to make a left-hand turn.
• Be extra cautious in bicycling over railroad tracks, especially if approached downhill; dismount if necessary.
• Be careful of parked motor vehicles. They may pull out into you path or a car door may open in front of you. Watch for exhaust fumes and look for a person sitting in the vehicle. Attempt to establish eye contact.
• Stay at least five bicycle lengths behind moving motor vehicles. They van stop and turn more quickly than you on your bicycle.
• Ride with caution on wet or sandy roads. They may be slippery and cause a fall.
• Potholes, metal grates and other objects in the road must be avoided.

For safe bicycling

• We require all cyclist to wear helmets.
• Wear bright clothing to make yourself visible to motorist.
• Make certain you wear no loose clothing that can get caught in a bicycle chain or wheel.
• We recommend using protective eyewear. If you wear corrective lenses for diving, wear them for bicycling. Make sure they fit tightly.

Make certain you are in good health and in sufficiently good physical condition to handle the exertion required by bicycling and other activities you undertake. A checkup with a doctor six months prior to your trip is advise.